Bynum might not return until January

Bob Cooney

The 76ers announced that Andrew Bynum might not be able to play basketball until January because of his knee injury.

In a statement, the Sixers said that Bynum had an MRI exam on Nov. 5. The diagnosis from Dr. David W. Altchek of New York's Hospital for Special Surgery, who also is Bynum's longtime personal doctor, moved the time back three weeks when the center could resume basketball activity.

If all goes well, Bynum would be able to return to basketball activity on about Dec. 10. The team said he will need an additional 1 to 4 weeks for "conditining, training and practice before before being able to resume game play with significant minutes."

Sixers GM Tony DiLeo said in a statement: "We know that Sixers fans are eager to see Andrew Bynum play and shine in a 76ers uniform. We also know that no one is more eager to see Andrew play for the Sixers than Andrew himself. He fully realizes the key contribution he can make to the team. Hopefully, that day is coming soon."